In a significant move to fortify national security, Guyana is set to establish a Border Patrol Unit, dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s borders and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance monitoring and patrolling activities along the country’s extensive borders.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Hon. Anil Nandlall, revealed details of the proposed Border Patrol Unit during his weekly program, ‘Issues in the News.’
Nandlall announced the imminent introduction of the Border Patrol Bill in the National Assembly, emphasizing the need to supplement the efforts of the Guyana Police Force and Guyana Defence Force in border protection.
Citing the primary objectives of the Border Patrol Bill, Nandlall stated that it aims to create a specialized force responsible for border patrol, protection, and monitoring.
The unit will operate in collaboration with existing law enforcement agencies, such as the Guyana Defence Force and Guyana Police Force.
The Attorney General clarified that the drafting of the bill predated the recent escalation of tension at the Venezuela-Guyana border and the planned Venezuelan referendum.
However, he underscored the urgency of swiftly passing and enacting the bill in response to reports of increased Venezuelan militia near Guyana’s borders.
Nandlall highlighted the challenging task of monitoring and patrolling Guyana’s extensive and intricate borders.
The Border Patrol Unit is envisioned as an additional layer of defense, working collaboratively with other law enforcement agencies.
It will contribute essential human and material resources to bolster the protection of Guyana’s borders.
As the Border Patrol Bill progresses through the legislative process, it represents a proactive measure to address the evolving security landscape and ensure the nation’s territorial integrity amid growing challenges.